Black mulberry (Morus nigra)

Also known as: Blackberry, Sycamine tree

The black mulberry (Morus nigra) originates from southwestern Asia and the Iberian Peninsula. It has a long history of cultivation in Europe and China for its fruit. Introduced to Britain in the 17th century for potential use in silkworm cultivation, it was found that silkworms favor the white mulberry instead.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Black mulberry

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

9 m to 12 m

Spread

10 m to 15 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Black mulberry

Quickly Identify Black mulberry

Black Mulberry can be identified by its rough bark, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges, and small, dark purple-black fruits. The leaves are often lobed, and the tree tends to have a gnarled appearance.

Scientific Classification of Black mulberry

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Mulberry

Genus

Mulberries

Species

Black mulberry

Planting and Growing of Black mulberry

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 12 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

10-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Black mulberry?

For Morus nigra, each watering session should deliver approximately 1000 ml of water, but this amount can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. The key principle is to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged, allowing a healthy growing environment. Check the upper soil layer regularly to ensure it dries slightly between waterings, but don’t let it become arid.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Black mulberry? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Black mulberry?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours

Partial sun entails receiving sunlight for part of the day, usually up to 6 hours. Morus nigra thrives in these conditions, leading to vibrant foliage and abundant fruiting.

What is the recommended amount of sunlight? ›

How can I ensure optimal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Black mulberry?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Morus nigra, when it thrives best, is between 68°F and 77°F. Within these temperatures, the plant can effectively photosynthesize and exhibit healthy growth.

What Soil is Best for Black mulberry?

Soil type: Loam, Clay soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Morus nigra thrives in soils that can retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. This quality helps the plant to maintain consistent hydration, which is crucial for its growth and fruit production. Rich nutrient content in the soil supports the vigorous growth of Morus nigra. Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium play essential roles in foliage health and fruit development. A well-draining soil texture is essential to prevent root rot. This characteristic ensures that excess water can escape, thereby maintaining healthy root systems and supporting overall plant health. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Black mulberry?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Morus nigra, the ideal amount of fertilizer largely depends on the plant's size and age. Generally, apply about 1 pound of a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer per year. Make sure to distribute it evenly around the plant's base, avoiding direct contact with the trunk to prevent root burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Black mulberry?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This helps the plant to focus energy on new growth and keep diseases at bay. Next, identify any crossed or rubbing branches and prune them to prevent future injuries. Ensure your cuts are clean and made at a slight angle away from the bud, leaving no stubs. Shape young Morus nigra trees by selecting a central leader branch and removing any competing leaders. Doing this helps develop a strong core structure that supports heavy fruit loads. Maintain a balanced open structure, which allows light and air to penetrate the canopy, reducing disease risk. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Black mulberry plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Select healthy young branches for cuttings, preferably from the current or previous year’s growth. Cut a segment about 6-8 inches long, ensuring it has several nodes and leaves.

Dip the cut end of the branches in rooting hormone and plant them into a moist substrate. Maintain consistent moisture levels for a period of several weeks until roots develop.

Use whip-and-tongue or cleft grafting for joining scion and rootstock. Ensure good cambium contact for successful grafting, wrapping the union with grafting tape to hold it securely.

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How to Repot Black mulberry plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like roots circling the pot bottom or emerging through drainage holes. Additionally, stunted growth can also indicate that it's time to repot your Morus nigra into a larger container.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has adequate drainage holes. This allows excess water to flow out, thus preventing root rot and promoting healthy root development.

Opt for a well-draining loam mix to provide ideal conditions for Morus nigra. This type of soil retains sufficient moisture while allowing excess water to drain away, preventing waterlogging.

Toxicity of Black mulberry

Is Black mulberry toxic to humans?

The black mulberry is known to have a relatively low level of toxicity for humans, mainly through exposure to its sap or consumption of unripe fruits. When the sap contacts the skin, it may result in irritation or dermatitis. Consuming unripe fruits can cause gastrointestinal distress, which may manifest as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These adverse effects are attributed to the presence of potentially irritating substances in both the sap and immature fruits. It is crucial for individuals, particularly children who may be attracted to the fruit, to steer clear of the toxic components of black mulberry. While the ripe fruit is generally safe for consumption, it is wise to ensure that only fully matured fruits are eaten to avoid the risk of accidental poisoning.

Is Black mulberry toxic to cat?

Black mulberry presents a low-level toxicity threat to cats. Felines may experience poisoning from contact with the plant's sap or by consuming unripe fruits. Signs of physical distress may arise following exposure, requiring urgent veterinary care. It is essential to restrict access to the recognized toxic components of black mulberry and to obtain prompt professional medical assistance if a cat displays any negative reactions, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Is Black mulberry toxic to dog?

The black mulberry is categorized as having mild toxicity for dogs. Dogs can experience poisoning from black mulberry via skin exposure to the plant's sap or by inadvertently consuming unripe fruit. The poisoning symptoms may manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances like vomiting or diarrhea, and skin reactions such as dermatitis in cases of direct contact. It is vital for dog owners to vigilantly supervise their pets and prevent them from accessing black mulberry, particularly the sap and the unripe fruit, which are notably toxic components. If a dog shows any signs of poisoning after interacting with black mulberry, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary assistance for timely and effective treatment.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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